Lepidolite
Lepidolite (Potassium Lithium Aluminum Sheet Silicate) · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Decorative Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Monoclinic; typically forms in massive, scaly, or micaceous aggregates, rarely as distinct pseudohexagonal crystals
Mineral Group
Silicates, specifically the mica group (Phyllosilicates)
Chemical Formula
K(Li,Al)3(Si,Al)4O10(F,OH)2
Formation Process
Forms primarily through hydrothermal and pegmatitic processes, crystallizing from late-stage residual melts that are enriched in rare elements like lithium, rubidium, and cesium.
About This Crystal
The specimen is a hand-carved, multifaceted geometric sphere (often styled as a palm stone or faceted sphere) displaying a rich purple to lilac color with characteristic mottled white and silvery flecks. It is opaque with a pearly to vitreous luster on polished facets and shows a microcrystalline or scaly internal texture.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from lilac-pink to deep purple and grayish-violet; white streak; perfect basal cleavage in one direction yielding thin, flexible elastic flakes (though obscured in a carved sphere); uneven fracture; specific gravity around 2.8-2.9; brittle tenacity overall with high flexibility on microscopic scales.
Optical Properties
Biaxial (-) with refractive indices around nα = 1.530 - 1.540, nβ = 1.560 - 1.567, nγ = 1.565 - 1.573; exhibits weak pleochroism in shades of pink and colorless; doubly refractive.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Notable sources include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States (California), Russia, and Canada. Typically found in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 4 (relatively soft, easily scratched by a copper coin or knife); poor durability for everyday jewelry due to perfect cleavage and softness; requires careful handling to avoid scratching.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth; avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners. Due to its softness and mica-like nature, it should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching, and kept away from prolonged direct sunlight to prevent color fading.
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon as a mineral specimen; value depends on the intensity of the purple color, size, and carving quality. Generally affordable, with carved spheres and palm stones widely accessible in the crystal market.
Special Characteristics
High natural lithium content which gives it its characteristic lilac-purple color; due to its mica structure, it may exhibit subtle pearlescent chatoyancy or a shimmering effect under direct light.
Lore & History
Discovered in the 19th century and initially named lilalite due to its lilac color before being renamed lepidolite (from the Greek 'lepidos' meaning scale). In modern crystal healing and metaphysical lore, it is often referred to as the 'stone of transition' and is associated with emotional healing, reducing stress, and balancing the third eye and crown chakras. These are traditional belief systems and cultural symbolisms rather than scientifically proven properties.